How to Reach AIIMS Bhubaneswar – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach AIIMS Bhubaneswar via train, bus, car, and flight with practical tips for a smooth journey.
AIIMS Bhubaneswar is located in the capital city of Odisha, Bhubaneswar, a rapidly growing hub for healthcare and education in eastern India. This route is popular among patients, students, and professionals traveling for medical treatment, academic purposes, or business. Whether you are coming from nearby cities or other states, this guide will help you navigate the best ways to reach AIIMS Bhubaneswar efficiently.
In this article, we cover all main transport options including train, bus, car, and flight. You will find detailed information on travel times, routes, ticket costs, and practical tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.
Getting from Major Cities to AIIMS Bhubaneswar – Main Options
Train
Train travel is a common and economical option for reaching Bhubaneswar, especially from cities like Kolkata, Visakhapatnam, and Delhi. The city is well connected by Indian Railways, with frequent trains stopping at Bhubaneswar Railway Station, the nearest major railhead to AIIMS.
- Key railway stations:
Bhubaneswar Railway Station is about 12 km from AIIMS Bhubaneswar and is well connected by local transport. Trains from Howrah, Chennai, and Delhi run daily, with journey times ranging from 6 to 24 hours depending on the origin.
- Ticket costs and classes:
Train fares vary from INR 200 for sleeper class to INR 1500+ for AC classes. Booking through IRCTC is recommended to secure confirmed seats, especially during peak seasons.
- Frequency and comfort:
Multiple trains run daily, including superfast and express services. AC coaches provide comfortable travel, while sleeper class is budget-friendly but less comfortable for long journeys.
- Local transport from station:
Auto-rickshaws, prepaid taxis, and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are readily available outside the station to reach AIIMS Bhubaneswar in 30–40 minutes.
- Seasonal tips:
Avoid traveling during Odisha’s monsoon months (July–September) due to occasional train delays and waterlogging near the station.
- Challenges:
Bhubaneswar station can get crowded during festivals; arrive early to avoid last-minute rush and verify platform details on the IRCTC app.
Bus
Buses offer a flexible and affordable way to reach AIIMS Bhubaneswar from nearby towns and cities. Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) and private operators run regular services to Bhubaneswar’s main bus terminals.
- Main bus terminals:
Buses arrive at Baramunda Bus Stand, about 10 km from AIIMS. From there, local buses or autos can be taken to the hospital.
- Routes and duration:
From Cuttack, buses take around 1 hour; from Puri, about 2 hours. Ticket prices range from INR 50 to INR 300 depending on distance and bus type.
- Bus types:
Options include ordinary, deluxe, and Volvo AC buses. Volvo buses offer more comfort for longer routes but are costlier.
- Frequency:
Frequent buses run throughout the day, but early morning and late evening services are limited.
- Travel tips:
Booking tickets via OSRTC’s online portal or at bus stands is advisable. Avoid traveling during peak festival times to prevent overcrowding.
- Local connectivity:
Auto-rickshaws and shared cabs are available from Baramunda to AIIMS Bhubaneswar; negotiate fares beforehand.
Car / Self-Drive
Driving to AIIMS Bhubaneswar is convenient for those who prefer flexibility and comfort. The city is accessible via National Highways and has good road infrastructure.
- Key highways:
NH16 connects Bhubaneswar to Kolkata and Chennai, passing near AIIMS. The hospital is located on Sijua Road, accessible via NH16 and local roads.
- Distance and time:
From Bhubaneswar city center, AIIMS is approximately 12 km and takes 30–40 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
- Parking facilities:
AIIMS Bhubaneswar has designated parking areas for visitors and patients, but spaces can fill quickly during peak hours.
- Fuel and tolls:
Fuel stations are available along NH16. There are toll plazas on NH16; keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.
- Driving tips:
Avoid driving during rush hours (8–10 AM and 5–7 PM) to bypass city traffic. Use GPS navigation apps for real-time traffic updates.
- Car rentals:
Self-drive car rentals and cab services like Ola Rentals are available in Bhubaneswar for hassle-free travel to AIIMS.
Flight
Bhubaneswar’s Biju Patnaik International Airport is the nearest airport to AIIMS Bhubaneswar, well connected to major Indian cities. Flights are the fastest way to reach the city for long-distance travelers.
- Airport to AIIMS distance:
The airport is about 15 km from AIIMS Bhubaneswar, approximately 30–40 minutes by road.
- Flight connectivity:
Regular flights operate from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Hyderabad. Airlines include IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet.
- Transport from airport:
Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at the airport exit. Shared airport shuttles are limited.
- Ticket costs:
Airfares vary widely, from INR 2,000 to INR 8,000 depending on booking time and season.
- Best practices:
Book flights well in advance during festival seasons. Check for flight delays during monsoon months.
- Airport facilities:
The airport has basic amenities including luggage services, ATMs, and eateries for a comfortable wait.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers to AIIMS Bhubaneswar, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.
- Book your tickets early:
Whether by train, bus, or flight, book tickets in advance via IRCTC, OSRTC, or airline websites to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Pack essentials:
Carry necessary documents, medicines, and water. Keep a power bank and snacks handy, especially for long train or bus journeys.
- Arrive early at departure point:
Reach the railway station, bus stand, or airport at least 1 hour before departure to manage security checks and boarding smoothly.
- Use local transport wisely:
On arrival at Bhubaneswar, opt for prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to reach AIIMS safely and avoid overcharging.
- Check hospital timings:
Confirm appointment or visiting hours at AIIMS to plan your arrival accordingly and minimize waiting time.
- Keep emergency contacts:
Save numbers of AIIMS helpdesk, local taxi services, and your accommodation for quick assistance.
Practical Travel Tips
- IRCTC and ticket booking:
Use the IRCTC app for train bookings and cancellations. Avoid agents to prevent scams and inflated prices.
- Hydration and food:
Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially if traveling by train or bus. Avoid street food near stations to prevent stomach issues.
- Local commute apps:
Ola and Uber operate reliably in Bhubaneswar. Use these apps for transparent pricing and safety, especially after dark.
- Luggage security:
Keep valuables close and avoid leaving bags unattended at stations or bus stands.
- Seasonal weather:
Odisha’s monsoon can disrupt travel plans. Check weather forecasts and train/bus status before departure.
- Safety precautions:
Prefer prepaid taxis over hailing autos on the street. Always confirm fare or use meter apps to avoid overcharging.
Best Time & Conditions
The best time to travel to AIIMS Bhubaneswar is during the cooler months from October to March, when weather is pleasant and travel conditions are optimal.
Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rains that can cause delays and roadblocks. Also, try to avoid peak office hours to reduce city traffic hassles.
Avoid traveling during major festivals like Rath Yatra and Durga Puja when Bhubaneswar experiences heavy crowds and transport congestion.
Early morning departures help bypass city traffic and ensure timely arrival at AIIMS.
Winter months offer clear skies and comfortable travel conditions, ideal for long-distance journeys.
Check for any local strikes or road maintenance updates on NH16 before planning your trip by road.
Arrival at AIIMS Bhubaneswar & What to Expect
On arrival at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, travelers find a modern healthcare campus located on the outskirts of the city. The hospital is well signposted and accessible via Sijua Road.
Local transport options include auto-rickshaws and prepaid taxis. For those arriving late, app-based cabs are the safest choice. Nearby attractions include the Dhauli Peace Pagoda and Nandankanan Zoological Park, which can be explored if time permits. Accommodation options range from budget lodges in the city center to guesthouses near AIIMS.
Conclusion
Among all transport options, train travel combined with a local cab from Bhubaneswar Railway Station is the most efficient and budget-friendly way to reach AIIMS Bhubaneswar. It offers a balance of comfort, affordability, and connectivity, especially for those coming from nearby states.
With proper planning, advance bookings, and awareness of local conditions, travelers can confidently reach AIIMS Bhubaneswar for their medical or academic needs. This guide aims to make your journey smooth and hassle-free, so you can focus on your purpose with peace of mind.